Nestled charmingly in the cradle of the valley of the Potomac River in Western Maryland, in the lush landscape of the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, is the Victorian town of Cumberland.

Perched gently in the city’s mainstream, is historic downtown. Dozens of shops catering to every whim and fancy, from boutiques to art galleries, restaurants and sidewalk cafes, line the century old streets. Here and there, dotting the commercial district are historical sites and buildings for those who appreciate a bit of history while they’re browsing.

Mere footsteps from the shops and bustle is the Western Maryland Railway Station stylizing the epitome of steam locomotive travel. The station is the starting point of a three hour round trip tour of the countryside on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad and its 1916 Baldwin Steam Locomotive. The Western Maryland Railway Station is part of the Canal Place Heritage Area, the first in the State of Maryland.

Canal Place is located at the western terminus of the C&O Canal. Celebrating Cumberland's canal heritage and rich transportation history, Canal Place offers a wealth of activities for visitors and residents alike.

While at the Heritage Area, visitors can ride the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, tour a full-scale replica canal boat, visit the C&O Canal National Historical Park Cumberland Visitor Center, get information about attractions and events in Allegany County, enjoy a hike or bike ride on the canal towpath, or attend unique festivals and events like C&O CanalFest. In the near future, visitors will be able to actually ride a canal boat on the rewatered terminus of the C&O Canal.

All of this is within a block or two of Baltimore Street, the heart of the business district and now the site of a unique brick pedestrian streetscape and town center. Complete with enticing water fountains, trees and flower beds, and stunning architecture.

Baltimore Street hosts some of the city’s biggest sidewalk festivals and block parties. In the warmer months the weekly Farmers Market will draw hundreds downtown and often evenings there will be activities such as outdoor dining with live music or block parties. As the seasons change so do the variety of activities.

In the thriving heart of Cumberland is the simplest, most effective feeling of a business district: family. They reach out, the stores, shops, and people, affecting us all by the warmth and unexpected friendliness that characterizes Downtown Cumberland. It’s something you won’t want to miss!